Salento, Colombia is a charming town nestled amidst lush green landscapes and towering mountains. Whether you’re looking to explore the great outdoors, discover coffee culture, or simply relax, this town has something for everyone. It’s the perfect destination for those who want to experience the beauty of Colombia without the crowds that can be found in more touristy areas. During my visit, I had the pleasure of celebrating my birthday here, and the experiences I had were unforgettable. If you’re planning a trip to Salento, here’s your guide to the best things to do.

Hike Through Cocora Valley

Cocora Valley is a must-visit when in Salento. Known for its towering wax palm trees, this stunning area is part of the Los Nevados National Natural Park. The hike through the valley is one of the most beautiful and rewarding in Colombia. It typically takes around five hours, and the views along the way are nothing short of breathtaking.

You can hike clockwise to head straight for the stunning views, or take the more popular anti-clockwise route, which allows you to save the best views for last. The trail takes you through dense jungle, where you’ll be surrounded by lush vegetation and the sound of nature. If you like, stop at a small hummingbird sanctuary for a small fee (though this wasn’t particularly impressive to me).

The hike can be challenging, especially the steep climb to the top, so make sure to bring good hiking boots and plenty of water. Once at the top, the panoramic views are well worth the effort. There’s a small entrance fee of around 3,000 pesos to access the valley, and to get there, take a jeep from the main square, which costs about 8,000 pesos.

Visit Coffee Farms

Salento is one of Colombia’s coffee hotspots, and visiting the coffee farms is a fantastic way to learn about the country’s famous coffee culture. There are several coffee farms near Salento, with three main ones being Arzacia (organic), Osaco, and Arcacia.

I highly recommend visiting Arzacia, especially if you can make it later in the day when the groups tend to be smaller. The owners are incredibly passionate and knowledgeable about organic coffee production, and you’ll learn a lot about the differences between organic and regular coffee. Tours typically start around 12,000 pesos. After the tour, head over to Osaco for a coffee break with a stunning view. You can get there by taking a jeep from the main square for about 6,000 pesos.

Horseback Riding Through the Countryside

For a unique way to explore the surrounding area, consider going horseback riding. Though I’m not an experienced rider, I decided to give it a try for my birthday, and it was a memorable experience. The three-hour ride took us through beautiful landscapes, including some picturesque waterfalls. While the ride was beautiful, I’ll admit that the saddle left me with a few sore spots, so be prepared for a bit of discomfort.

Prices for a half-day horse ride are typically around 45,000 pesos, and it’s a great way to see the countryside at a relaxed pace.

Where to Stay in Salento

For a cozy and welcoming place to stay, I highly recommend Coffee Tree Boutique Hostel. It’s a charming spot with spacious rooms and a friendly atmosphere, making it perfect for meeting fellow travelers. I stayed in a four-person dorm, which was comfortable, though I’ve heard that the six-person dorm can get a bit crowded.

Another great option is Viajero Salento, which I stayed at for my first few nights. This hostel has a vibrant atmosphere, and for anyone interested in wellness, they offer morning yoga classes.

If you’re looking for a more peaceful retreat in the mountains, Hotel Kawa Mountain Retreat offers stunning panoramic views and a tranquil setting that’s perfect for those who want to escape and relax.

How to Get to Salento

Getting to Salento is relatively straightforward. From Bogotá, you can take a bus to Armenia, and then transfer to a bus that will take you to Salento. Alternatively, if you’re flying into Pereira, you can take a bus directly to Salento from the airport.

Conclusion

Salento is a destination that perfectly balances nature, culture, and relaxation. Whether you’re hiking through Cocora Valley, learning about coffee production, or simply soaking in the stunning views, there’s no shortage of things to do in this charming Colombian town. With its welcoming atmosphere and diverse activities, Salento is an unforgettable place to experience the heart of Colombia.